Becky'S Chicken Casserole
Creamy chicken casserole with crunchy cracker topping and poppy seeds offers comfort and flavor, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix oleo, 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds, and crushed crackers. Save enough of this mixture to sprinkle on top of the casserole.
- Put this mixture in the bottom of a 9 x 12-inch glass dish.
- Add the boiled, boned, torn chicken breasts on top of the cracker mixture.
- Make a sauce with the three cans of cream of chicken soup, 12 oz. sour cream, and 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds.
- Mix the sauce well, but do not heat or cook it.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the dish.
- Top the casserole with the remaining oleo, poppy seeds, and crushed cracker mixture.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can substitute the Ritz crackers with whole grain crackers for added nutrition. Make sure to boil the chicken until fully cooked for the best texture. Adding sautéed onions or vegetables can enhance flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting dinner, serve with warm crusty bread to complete the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Becky'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 353 calories, with 11g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1046mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw and cook it before adding it to the casserole. Boiling until cooked through ensures it will be tender and flavorful in the final dish.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the cracker topping right before baking to keep it crunchy and fresh.
What can I substitute for the Ritz crackers?
If you want a healthier option, consider using whole grain crackers or even crushed cornflakes. You can also make your own breadcrumb topping by toasting whole wheat bread and crushing it for added texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).